Is the Bob Baker Marionette Theater Worth Saving without Puppets?

ECHO PARK- Portions of  the Bob Baker Marionette Theater  would serve as the lobby of a proposed 104-unit apartment complex. But Baker’s struggling puppet theater company is scheduled to move out next year, prompting the head of the Cultural Heritage Commission to ask if the historic landmark is worth preserving. 

The issue was raised today after an architect and consultant for the new owners of the theater property proposed constructing housing around and above portions of the cinderblock building where Baker’s marionettes have been entertaining children and adults for more than 50 years.  

The developer would construct a nearly 60-foot wide platform above the theater building – a former industrial and warehouse space –  to support three floors of housing.  Art displays honoring Baker’s legacy would be included in the former theater, which would serve as a lobby and meeting rooms for the housing development. (Read the rest here.) 

-cw

 

 

 

CityWatch

Vol 12 Issue 84

Pub: Oct 17, 2014